Magners cider maker C&C Group on Thursday said demand for more premium drinks has contributed to UK sales edging up in a challenging market.
Total revenues at the Irish drinks firm rose 13.5% to €874.9 million (£755.5 million) in the six months to August 31. Pre-tax profits improved to €56.6 million from €55.9 million.
In Britain sales increased 2.7% to €167.8 million, helped by growth in its “super-premium and craft” arm, which includes brands such as Orchard Pig cider and Heverlee lager.
Investec analyst Alicia Forry said: “C&C is well placed to capitalise on trading up in the UK.”
But sales of Magners slipped here. A year earlier that brand had benefited from good weather and the football World Cup enticing people to pubs.
Boss Stephen Glancey said: “Despite challenging year-on-year comparatives we have delivered a resilient revenue performance in our core brands.”
He added that current trading is in line with expectations.
